Note: This article was originally published in The Straits Times Prof Fukunari Kimura was quoted.

China says it wants to join the 11-nation Pacific Rim free trade arrangement, in addition to being part of the RCEP. The US has no role in either grouping, leaving Japan to hold the line.

Click here to read the news in The Straits Times

Japan Plays Guardian and Gatekeeper of the CPTPP